MAC may be best known for its makeup products – from bold MAC lipsticks and ultra-pigmented eyeshadows to its iconic MAC foundations and concealers, but in 2023 it’s taking a skin-first approach with the launch of a three-piece skincare collection, Hyper Real. It makes total sense – skincare is essentially the first step in every makeup look. Skin has to be prepped, smoothed, and moisturised in order for makeup to apply well and last all day. Inspired by MAC’s pro MUAs, Hyper Real is all about improving skin in order to enhance the effect of makeup, which is something we can totally get on board with.
Skincare minimalists will appreciate that the collection encompasses only the basics – cleanser, serum, and moisturiser – and also the fact that the products are true multitaskers, aimed to function for all skin types and concerns. The cleansing oil works hard (and fast) to break down makeup (even stubborn mascara) without stripping skin, the serum is packed with barrier-strengthening ingredients, and the moisturiser was formulated to effectively prep and prime skin for base makeup. Combined, the products work together to help you achieve healthy, happy skin in three easy steps.
After a few weeks of testing out the new MAC skincare products, here’s my verdict.
Hyper Real Fresh Canvas Cleansing Oil
I’m a huge fan of cleansing oils and this is a particularly good one. It’s light and silky in texture and smells pleasantly clean and floral, which makes it a joy to use. I like to spend time massaging it into my skin to break down my makeup, then I add warm water to emulsify the oil before rinsing off with a face cloth. It leaves my skin feeling clean and soft, and doesn’t irritate my sensitive eyes.
Hyper Real Serumizer Skin Balancing Hydration Serum
The first thing I do when I use a new serum is check out the ingredients list. This one features a few of my personal favourites, hyaluronic acid (to hydrate), ceramides (to strengthen the skin barrier), salicylic acid (to exfoliate), and niacinamide, which helps with a number of concerns including reducing redness and the appearance of enlarged pores. In addition, the formulas contains Japanese peony extract to help improve skin’s resilience. You can see why this product is effective for all skin types. What’s more, the light texture absorbs quickly and feels really soothing.
Hyper Real Skin Canvas Balm Moisturising Cream
This is my personal favourite from the collection, it’s nourishing but not heavy or greasy, and (as you’d expect from a MAC moisturiser) it sits well beneath makeup – no pilling or flaking. Like the serum, it contains niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and Japanese peony extract, so it helps to smooth and support skin as well as hydrate.
